Sex and Sexuality Handbook for the Helping Professional is designed to serve as a comprehensive guide to facilitate conversations around sex and sexuality. Targeted primarily at helping professionals, the book equips readers with the knowledge and skills to discuss these often-challenging topics in a variety of contexts. It weaves together stories, research, and practical activities to enhance understanding and comfort concerning sexual health. The text examines themes such as the development of sexuality across the lifespan, the intersection of sexual health with various forms of discrimination, and how to broach the subject of sex in advocacy, educational, mental, and physical health settings. It also covers specific considerations for people with disabilities and discussions around sexual and gender identities. Reflective activities included throughout the text encourage engagement with the material, fostering personal and professional growth. Sex and Sexuality Handbook for the Helping Professional is recommended for use in courses such as human sexuality, counseling, social work, and healthcare. Additionally, its usefulness extends to professionals in education, counseling, and healthcare who seek to enhance their practice as well as those entrusted with imparting sexual education or parenting guidance.
Alexandra Kriofske Mainella, Ph.D. is an assistant professor of counselor education and counseling psychology at Marquette University. Her research explores the impact of sexual health education and information on the mental well-being for people with disabilities and without. She holds a Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, an M.A. from Marquette University, and is a certified rehabilitation counselor.
The focus on intersectionality and social justice is unique to this textbook and should be the reason for adoption consideration. Through these chapters, along with the journal and reflective activities, Kriofske highlights the importance of addressing sexuality, first as individuals and then as clinicians, with all clients and students in a candid and relatable manner. Michelle E. Wade, EdD., University of New Orleans "In Sex and Sexuality Handbook for the Helping Professional, Dr. Alexandra Kriofske Mainella has provided counselor educators with the materials they need to incorporate valuable skills related to sexual wellness into the courses they teach to counseling trainees. Preservice school counselors as well as clinical mental health counselors will find important guidance on developing the necessary self-awareness, knowledge, skills, and appropriate attitudes to engage in meaningful discussions with the individuals and communities they serve on issues related to sexual wellness." Laurie Bonio, Southern Connecticut State University
